Mental Health First Aid for the Older Person

Older Person Mental Health First Aid

Equips adults with the knowledge, skills and confidence to recognise, understand and respond to a friend, family member, or another adult aged 65+, experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis.

INTERVENE EARLY

Recognise the warning signs of mental health problems in older adults.

OFFER SUPPORT

Learn the skills to have an open, supportive conversation about mental health.

RESPOND IN A CRISIS

Respond across a range of crisis situations where an older adult may be at risk of harm.

REDUCE STIGMA

Reduce stigma and increase support for older adults experiencing and living with mental health problems.

The Older Person Mental Health First Aid course teaches participants who work with, care for or support adults aged 65+ how to provide initial support to someone who may be experiencing a mental health problem or mental health crisis, until professional help is received or the crisis resolves. 

Course participants learn about the signs and symptoms of common mental health problems in older adults, how to recognise and respond to an emerging or worsening mental health problem, and the treatments and supports available. 

Using a practical, evidence-based action plan, course participants learn how to approach someone they are concerned about and initiate a conversation about those concerns. Participants also learn how to offer initial support and information and how to encourage the person to seek professional help or other supports. 

Adults who complete the course become Mental Health First Aiders (MHFAiders), equipped with the knowledge, confidence, and skills to provide someone with mental health information and support when it matters most. 

This course is recognised by Suicide Prevention Australia as a safe, high-quality, and effective suicide prevention program.